Gordon-John Manche' who heads the River of Love Christian fellowship group, said today he will be presenting a petition to MPs against child adoptions by gay couples.

Last year he raised controversy and a public protest after claiming to 'convert' gay people.

The pastor said the petition, which carries 10,000 signatures, says that the people of Malta do not want the Bill on Civil Unions to go ahead.

"We are further encouraged that the honourable and admirable ex-President of Malta refused to sign this law in action! This a sign of the times for Malta!" he said in a reference to George Abela, who is still the President.

He said that should the Bill become law, he would call for a referendum.

"It is unheard of, that where in a country where over 80% of the people of Malta and Gozo are against these issues, that people in power continue to press on with it! This is no longer democracy...but subtle in your face dictatorship!"

Mr Manche' said the 10,000 signatures were collected in less than four weeks. "So we are more than confident that should we need to, the necessary signatures for referendum will be easily collected in little time!"

See also: Protest over gay conversions held - http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110518/local/protest-over-gay-conversions-held.366018